The Vocero News joins Autism month to promote social inclusion

Did you know that autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior? It is called a “spectrum” disorder because symptoms and severity can vary greatly from person to person. Some common symptoms of autism include difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors or routines, and difficulty with communication. Autism is usually diagnosed in early childhood and, while there is no cure, early intervention and therapy can help people with autism lead fulfilling lives. It is important to note that autism is not caused by poor parenting or environmental factors, but rather the result of differences in brain development. The CDC reported in 2020 that approximately 1 in 36 children in the US is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Boys are four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ASD.

Children from minority groups are often diagnosed later and less frequently, which is dangerous because early intervention has been documented to provide the best chance for healthy development. Currently, there is no definitive medical test for autism. For many years, there has been a great deal of controversy about whether there is a link between childhood vaccines and autism. Special diets, along with multiple intensive therapies and specialized academic support, are often reported to be very effective interventions for children diagnosed with autism. During Autism Awareness Month,

“El Vocero News” is pleased to present an organization making history and belonging to our community. Autism Soccer is heading towards its 11th year working for children with ASD, developing projects in more than 10 countries, based on the use of sport as a fundamental instrument for development and promotion of education through positive values embodied by sport. Currently, more than 20,000 children worldwide have benefited from these initiatives, and more than 35 people have been trained. The organization believes that sport is a powerful means of achieving social inclusion. Oscar Amuz, founder, former football player, and current coach, has been an advocate for inclusion and equality in sport. His experience on the field and his passion for football make him a role model for young people with autism who are looking to develop sports and social skills.

Therefore, in 2012 in Miami (Florida), he created Autism Soccer, based on awareness and solidarity in the face of the lack of spaces for the integration and development of people with autism both within the framework of American society and worldwide, with the aim of changing the lives of children and adults with ASD through the king of sports. It promotes understanding among young people in social environments, helping them to reduce tensions and generate dialogue, while also promoting the growth of self-confidence in oneself and others.

Autism Soccer is an organization that contributes to improving society through the transmission of values. We know that passion can lead to motivation. We seek to instill principles such as discipline and self-confidence and promote inclusion and equality, which are as important on the football field as in the daily lives of children with ASD who are at risk of social exclusion.

Respect for others, personal effort, and teamwork are fundamental values for us. The example of a person’s behavior or the philosophy of Autism Soccer can become crucial elements for building a more humane society. Currently, there is a need for continuous planning and development, step by step, of programs and projects that favor the integral education of people with special needs.